I race in the upper 3rd of the cars and have passed many bike guys over the past few years at NORRA. My rule of thumb is that if they are sitting down their tired or inexperienced and I use extreme caution. I usually wait as long as I can for a look back or a wave by before passing. It’s pretty rare that you have to wait too long, but if there’s plenty of room and the bike is riding a consistent line I pass.

I also pay attention to who’s starting in front of me and count bikes if there are any. NORRA should be telling the drivers how many bikes are ahead of them and how far; they have the start times so it would be easy. NORRA could also give the option to the bikes to be held without penalty if a car is going to be the next starter on a stage.

If you’re riding in the center of a graded road, or an inconsistent line of front of a car, you’re going to piss off the car guy. If you’re that guy, I want GoPro footage to get you DQ’d. If you’re the guy stopped on course reading his road book, I want you DQ’d as well.

NORRA gave Buddy is 1:20 back that he spent with the fallen rider, so he won his class. It was the second time he stopped to help during the race. The first time was a rolled truck that he was concerned the occupants wouldn’t be able to get out.